In a decisive escalation, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) conducted extensive airstrikes across the Gaza Strip, resulting in the deaths of four senior Hamas officials. This operation marks a significant intensification in the ongoing conflict between Israel and the militant group.
The IDF confirmed the elimination of four senior officials:
- Issam al-Da’alis, Hamas’s de facto prime minister in Gaza
- Mahmoud Abu Watfa, director-general of Hamas’s Interior Ministry
- Bahjat Abu Sultan, operational chief of Hamas’s internal security apparatus
- Ahmed Omar al-Hatta, Hamas’s justice minister.
These targeted strikes aim to dismantle Hamas’s leadership and operational capabilities.
The airstrikes resulted in over 400 casualties, according to local health officials, effectively ending a ceasefire that had been in place since January. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu authorized the offensive following Hamas’s refusal to amend the ceasefire agreement and release Israeli hostages. Netanyahu’s office stated that Israel will now “act against Hamas with increasing military strength.”
The White House has expressed support for Israel’s actions, emphasizing that Hamas’s intransigence led to the resumption of hostilities. National Security Council spokesman Brian Hughes noted that Hamas “could have released hostages to extend the ceasefire but instead chose refusal and war.”
Hamas officials have condemned the Israeli offensive, accusing Netanyahu of jeopardizing the lives of remaining hostages and acting to bolster his political standing. Izzat al-Risheq, a senior Hamas figure, labeled the strikes a “death sentence” for the captives and urged international mediators to intervene.
Humanitarian organizations have raised alarms over the deteriorating conditions in Gaza. Aid groups report dwindling supplies of food, medicine, and fuel, exacerbated by Israel’s blockade of goods into the territory. The humanitarian crisis continues to deepen as the conflict persists.
The international community remains divided. While left-leaning governments call for restraint, Israel’s allies recognize its right to defend itself against a terrorist organization that continues to hold hostages and launch attacks. Peace is impossible as long as Hamas prioritizes war over negotiations.
